Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone has shared her reflections on faith and resilience after breaking her 400m hurdles world record for the sixth time.
The two-time Olympic champion has made it seem effortless as she consistently raises the bar in the sport. In an appearance on *The Jennifer Hudson Show*, she discussed her incredible journey, attributing her success to faith and perseverance.
“Honestly, I always wanted to be a track athlete. I also aspired to be at the Olympics. So, this being my third Olympics, being able to break that [world] record for the sixth time, it’s nothing short of God’s grace,” she stated.
McLaughlin-Levrone’s dominance began in 2021 when she first set the world record at the U.S. Olympic Trials with a time of 51.90 seconds, dethroning reigning champion Dalilah Muhammad and starting her era of excellence. Her journey culminated at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she achieved a stunning 50.37 seconds, once again breaking her own record.
After her victory in Paris, she expressed her astonishment and gratitude: “Jeez. That was the moment, the moment you dream about as a kid, and when it comes real, you’re just like, oh my gosh, this is real life and just a blessing. Super excited.”
Heading into the Paris Olympics, McLaughlin-Levrone was the clear favorite, having already broken the world record five times. However, she faced fierce competition from Netherlands’ Femke Bol, who clocked an impressive 50.95 seconds, aiming to challenge the American.
In the heats and semifinals, Bol showcased her speed, leading over McLaughlin-Levrone. But in the finals, McLaughlin-Levrone rose to the occasion, surging ahead in the final 100 meters and finishing in 50.37 seconds, setting a new world record.
Her teammate Anna Cockrell secured silver with a personal best of 51.87 seconds, while Bol took bronze with a time of 52.15 seconds. This race not only solidified McLaughlin-Levrone’s Olympic title but marked her sixth world record.
Beyond her individual triumph, McLaughlin-Levrone also contributed to Team USA’s gold in the women’s 4x400m relay, running the second leg to help secure a new continental record of 3 minutes and 15.27 seconds, further showcasing American strength in the event.
